Bengaluru-based cab aggregator Ola, has officially commenced operations in New Zealand, offering rides in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, including from airports in these cities. Celebrating the launch, Ola is offering 50% off all rides for the first month.
Ola is betting on ride quality and safety to bring customers to its platform.
“Customer experience lies at the heart of Ola’s service with state-of-the-art safety features including an in-app emergency button which enables customers to instantly share important ride information, such as real-time ride tracking, location co-ordinates and vehicle and driver information with friends, family and emergency services. Every vehicle is inspected to ensure it is roadworthy and every driver undertakes a police check,” the company said in a statement.
In order to attract drivers to its platform, it is offering a low introductory commission rate of 9 percent for drivers, as well as daily payments.
“Entering New Zealand is an important step for Ola, and the ridesharing industry here. Over recent weeks, we’ve received enthusiastic feedback from drivers across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. With a reliable platform, an engaged, growing group of drivers and local staff in place, we’re excited to announce that Ola is now available to Kiwi passengers, giving them a fresh alternative to move about conveniently within our cities,” Brian Dewil, New Zealand Country Manager for Ola said in a statement.
Ola forayed into New Zealand in September this year. This came after it launched operations in Australia and the UK earlier this year. In UK, Ola is offering introductory commission rates – as low as 10% for PHV drivers and 5% for Taxis – as well as payments made daily.
In Australia, Ola operates in 7 cities across the country with over 50,000 drivers registered on the platform and has completed over 2 million rides.
Globally, Ola now conducts 1 billion rides each year, with more than 1 million drivers and 125 million customers in over 110 cities.